Quigley, who worked for the Met's Child Abuse Investigation Command unit and is believed to live in Colchester, Essex, was placed on restricted work duties after the incident, which took place last January.

But he is now facing imprisonment and losing his job. The offence carries the maximum of five years jail.

Judge David Higgins adjourned the case for reports as he said he wanted to “reflect on the matter.”

He told Quigley: "I regard this as a matter of considerable seriousness but I make no final judgment as yet because I need to be fully informed before I reach any formal conclusion.

"The fact remains there may have been the most horrendous consequences – the consequences themselves were bad enough."

Richard Atchley, for Quigley, said he was “upset” that colleagues had been taking his Lucozade.

Most screen wash consists of alcohol, chemical agents and solvents, and can cause serious harm if swallowed.

Quigley was released on unconditional bail until he is sentenced on May 7.